In the book Stories for the Journey, William R. White tells about a European seminary professor named Hans and his wife, Enid. World War II forced them to flee to America where he found a job teaching. He was warm, gentle, beloved by his students, and he brought Scripture to life for them.

Hans and Enid were very much in love. Nearly every day they took long walks together, holding hands, and they always sat close in church, until Enid died, overwhelming Hans with sorrow. Worried because he wouldn't eat nor take walks, the seminary president, along with three other friends, visited him regularly, but he remained lonely and depressed. Experiencing the dark night of the soul, Hans told his friends, "I am no longer able to pray to God. In fact, I am not certain I believe in God any more."

After a moment of silence the seminary president said, "Then we will believe for you. We will make your confession for you. We will pray for you." So the four men met daily for prayer, asking God to restore the gift of faith to their dear friend.

Many months later, as the four gathered with Hans, he smiled and said, "It is no longer necessary for you to pray for me. Today, I would like you to pray with me." The dark night of the soul had passed. Instead of carrying Hans to Jesus on a stretcher, they had carried him on their prayers.